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Gearing Up For Spring Riding

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Gearing Up For Spring Riding

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Spring is just around the corner and that means that spring riding too! Bring on the longer days, sunshine, and Booterville sessions. But with the change in seasons, comes the need to change up your gear. Trust us. Wearing your usual winter attire can lead to excessive sweating, improper lenses, and even sunburns. So with a little planning, you can make the most of what’s left of the remaining season and spring riding.

Backpack

Hot one minute, cold the next. With the arrival of springtime, also comes varying temperatures. Ride with a backpack and be prepared to layer up or layer down at any point of the day. Your pack can also act as place to hold your sunscreen, shades, and of course, snacks!

Sunscreen

You can burn at any point of the year but obviously, when the sun is out the risk of getting a sunburn is higher. Protect your face with some SPF before hitting the slopes. It’s recommended to use a sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher for better protection and also, don’t skip out on the lip sunscreen either. Remember to reapply a couple of times during the day.

Gloves

Ditch the heavy duty gloves. There’s no need for them when the temperatures hover above zero as they will be too warm. Instead, opt for a lightweight glove that allows for dexterity and breathability. Light gloves will also provide just the right amount of protection from that sometimes sharp spring snow.

Sunglasses

Yup, we said it. Sunglasses! Throw a pair in your backpack for when you’re hanging out with buddies or getting to and from the hill. They will even come in handy during an impromptu après session or dance party at Glacier Lodge.

Action Cam

From parties on the hill to park sessions to après, you’re really going to want to capture all that can go down during a spring day on the mountain. Check out the new GoPro Hero 8 with HyperSmooth 2.0 stabilization, perfect for whatever ends up happening.

Goggles

It’s time trade in your cloudy, low light lenses for something better fitted for bright sun. Not only will this allow you to see, this lens change can also protect your eyes against squinting and the extra UV rays.

All time, springtime is coming in hot and we can’t wait for this part of the season. Be prepared for those Peak Parties, longer days, and beaming sunshine by spending a little time re-organizing your riding attire. For any questions, come stop into McCoo’s. Otherwise, happy spring shredding!

Which GoPro Is For You?

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Which GoPro Is For You?

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We get it, you’re busy. Between work and shredding, who has time to research gear and technology? And with constant upgrades and advancements, when it comes time to making a purchase, it can be challenging to know what product is best for you. So, that brings us to the main point: what’s the deal with all the GoPro models? With so many new features and even old features, how does one navigate which one to get? We’ve made it simple and put all the required info in one place. So here is how you can find out which GoPro is best for you!

HERO7

  • 12MP + SuperPhoto With HDR
  • HyperSmooth Video Stabilizing
  • TimeWarp
  • Superview, Wide, Linear digital lenses
  • 720p Live streaming

HERO8

  • 12MP + SuperPhoto With Improved HDR
    • SuperPhoto applies HDR, local tone mapping or noise reduction. The Hero8 has an improved version of this.
  • Live Burst
    • Record the moments 1.5 seconds before and after your shot, so you can choose the best single frame for the perfect photo or a shareable video!
  • Frameless mounting with folding fingers
  • HyperSmooth 2.0 Video Stabilizing
  • Horizon Levelling with the GoPro App
    • Horizon levelling that provides a cinematic look.
  • 2.7K / 4K Bitrate
  • TimeWarp 2.0
    • Capture super stabilized time lapse videos while you move through an activity. TimeWarp adjusts speed based on motion, scene detection and lighting (automatically for HERO8 Black and in HERO Mode for MAX).
  • SuperView, Wide, Linear, Narrow digital lenses
  • Custom presets
  • Onscreen shortcuts
    • Customize your screen with the quickest way to find the features you use most.
  • Night lapse video
  • 1080p Live streaming

Both

  • 4K60 Video
  • Removable Battery
  • Waterproof up to 33ft (10m)
  • Touch screen
  • Voice control
    • Go hands-free with voice commands like “GoPro, take a photo.
  • Time lapse video
  • Wake-on voice
    • Use voice commands to turn on your GoPro or start recording (lasts 1 hour after powering off).
  • 8x Slow motion
  • Variety of compatible housing
  • GPS
    • GPS captures your location, altitude and speed.
  • Protune
    • Manually control colour, white balance, shutter speed and more.
  • Automatic cloud back-up
  • Advanced Metadata
    • Knows when you face the camera, smile and more. The GoPro app uses those details to handpick your best shots and create amazing videos.
  • Advanced wind reduction
  • Wifi + Bluetooth connectivity
  • GP1 Chip
    • GoPro-designed chip made to deliver next-level image quality and stabilization.

Still unsure of which GoPro model to get? Our staff at McCoo’s happen to be well-versed in action cams. Come in and let them help you make the final decison!

Gear You Need To Start The Decade Off

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Gear You Need To Start The Decade Off

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So no pressure, but it’s the start of a new decade and that means a clean slate, fresh start, tabula rasa, whatever you want to call it. As with all new beginnings, it’s a chance to embark on creating the best version of yourself. And if you’re a Whistler local, somewhere in there is usually increasing your time on the hill and your snowboarding or skiing abilities. Well, that’s something that requires time. If you’re inpatient like us, just grab something from our gear you need to start the decade off on the right ski list and getting cracking!

GoPro Hero 8

Forget writing this new chapter, film it with a GoPro Hero 8 and relive the chapter over and over. Equipped with a 12MP CMOS image sensor and 4K video capability, this action camera delivers stunning imagery you’ll want to be part of your new decade. What’s more, the long list of mounts will allow you to be creative with angles and how you’re getting your insane footy.

Oakley PRIZM Goggles and Sunglasses

PRIZM technology is the way of the future. The lenses allow you to see contrast as well as enhance colours. This leads to a increased ability to navigate through terrain. Hello, no more flat landings or blow outs! 2020, new year, new you, no new knee!

Mons Royale Anything

Merino wool is the way of the future. Merino wool is traceable and 100% biodegradable. It is also breathable and antimicrobial which means it can help keep you dry while you’re braving the elements and also, keep you smelling fresh.

Corcksicle Canteen

These colourful, completely reusable and trendy canteens, tumblers, stemless wine cups, mugs, and tumbler straws will help you drink more water in the new year. What’re more, they’re sustainable. So you don’t forfeit style while reducing your impact on the planet.

Hestra Gloves

Purchase a pair of Hestra Gloves and you might not need new ones for another decade. Yes, you read that right.  Made from Elk leather, these gloves are designed to stand the test of time.

2020 is your chance at starting the best decade yet. Set off on the right ski and with the right gear found at McCoo’s. With the correct gear to get you on the mountain for longer, you’ll be well on your way to logging hours towards being the best rider you can be. From all of us at McCoo’s, Happy New Year!

Tips For Capturing The Best GoPro Footage

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Tips For Capturing The Best GoPro Footage

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In this day and age, it’s easy to capture all of life’s moments with an action cam. GoPro is one of the best and most affordable action cams on the market. And what makes it even better, is that it’s also really easy to use. Despite its simplicity, there are a few tips and tricks that can take you from just capturing moments to cultivating cinematic masterpieces. Read on for tips for capturing the best GoPro footage possible.

Use Filters For Underwater Photography And Video

Throw a red filter on for underwater photography and video. It can help distinguish the sandy ground or coral from the surrounding blue ocean.

Don’t Be Afraid To Use The App

The app can help you edit, share directly to your social channels, change settings, utilize different functions and so much more.

Use A Mount

One of the easiest ways to make a rad GoPro video, and can definitely make things more exciting, is to use a mount. Luckily, there are hundreds of different mounts available on the market. Use it for how it was intended or get creative to get some really interesting footage.

Aim For Steady Footage

The Hero7 Black features revolutionary electronic image stabilization, but as impressive as it is, using an external stabilizer still has its benefits, whether you need a static shot or a moving one. This is where a gimble comes in.

Opt For Manual Instead Of Automatic Settings

GoPro’s automatic settings are great and especially useful for those just getting acquainted with their new camera. However, manually changing your settings can help produce better quality footage. This is very true in those tricky light situations which happen all too frequently in outdoor settings. Higher-end GoPros, like the Black models, let you select all sorts of parameters, including resolution, frame rate, and exposure compensation.

Tell A Story

What story do you want to tell with your GoPro? Look for creating a beginning, middle, and an end within your videos. This will take your footage from a few random clips to something far more meaningful.

Plan Your Shots

Don’t just strap on your GoPro and giver’. Spend a little bit of time thinking about composition and how the shots will also fit together. This will also help you in telling your story.

Ready to create some incredible footage of your life in Whistler? Here at McCoo’s, we carry the latest GoPro accessories and camera. Stop by and let us help you get started.

5 Gear Upgrades You Need To Do This Winter

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5 Gear Upgrades You Need To Do This Winter

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We know how much a beloved piece of gear makes you feel. It’s trustworthy, reliable, and worked in. That stinky old base layer that you’ve been holding onto since you first moved to Whistler. That shirt has kept you warm through countless pow days and après. You know the one we’re talking about. Its lifespan has been reached, possibly even exceeded. Do yourself a favor and upgrade it to newer technology for the best ski season yet. While you’re at it, here are 5 more gear upgrades you definitely need to do this winter.

Gloves

Your gloves see a ton of action. Through all the strapping in, and doing up ski boots, they can lose some of their durability. Retire last seasons gloves to the status of ‘back-up’ and grab a new pair of Hestra Gloves. The design and material choice of Hestra gloves will even see you into next season and beyond.

Socks

Socks are one of the most washed parts of your winter gear. This means that over time, the fabric weakens and their adaptability to changing temperature conditions can be altered. Invest in a decent pair and it can make a huge difference to your experience on the mountain.

Goggles

Goggle technology is always improving. There’s no need to suffer through fogging and light distortion issues associated with many of the older models.  Ditch what you’ve got and check out the Oakley PRIZM Snow Goggles. The lenses enhance contrast and visibility over a wide range of light conditions.

Action Cam

GoPro has recently released the GoPro Hero 7 and a Hero 5 just won’t do the trick anymore after you hear about the new features. On the Hero 7, you’ll find improved audio, live-streaming to sites like Facebook, and a new time-lapse mode. All necessities when it comes to making edits of your latest mountain antics an getting them on social ASAP.

Beanie

If you’re anything like the average Whistler local, you’re most likely wearing your beanie day in and day out. At work, the bar, and of course on the hill, it’s just part of your mountain wardrobe. Freshen up your look with this year’s colors and styles by snagging one of the latest COAL headwear toques, found at both of our locations.

We at McCoo’s know how important it is it to have gear that you love. Why not make the gear you love, also the latest technology by upgrading some of the essentials this winter?

Everything You Need For A Lit Crankworx

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Everything You Need For A Lit Crankworx

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Crankworx is coming to Whistler and to maximize your fun, you’re going to want to be prepared. No, we’re not talking scheduling in what events you need to catch and what after parties you can’t miss- we’re talking about all the nitty gritty stuff, like your bike park kit, water bottle, and of course, beach gear. Feeling a little overwhelmed? Don’t worry, we’ve got everything you need right here for lit Crankworx.

Bike Park Kit

Crankworx is the time to be seen. There are riders from all over the world showing off their skills but they don’t know about the double on Samari Pizza Cat or the sneaky lines on Dirt Merchant. Stand out in a Loose Riders Whistler Chapter kit. Colorful, functional, and oh so snazzy, you’re sure to get WHOOPS and YEAH BOSS’ while riding Family Cross.

Socks

Okay, so socks might not seem like a priority but trust us, they are. Reping some Stance socks in the bike park is just as important as having the newest Santa Cruz Nomad.

Water Bottle

Hello, #HEATWAVE2018. It’s almost as ridiculous to walk around without a water bottle as it is to be wearing pants in this weather. Grab a S’well Water Bottle that matches your look and keeps your beverage cool for up to 24 hours. The perks don’t stop there. These water bottles are eco-friendly.

Action Cam

Imagine this: A first-time trick gets thrown down at Redbull Joy Ride and you can’t believe your eyes. Was it a triple or a quadruple? Don’t settle for waiting for the rerun, watch it instantaneously on your GoPro. Then, let the cheering commence!

Beach Gear

Everyone knows that the place to go to cool down after watching Speed and Style or Fox Air DH is the lake. Show up with all the right gear. Hat, check, RipCurl My Bikini, check, Smith sunnies, check! Who knows, maybe you’ll chat your way into a wrist band or two for just one of the killer Crankworx parties.

Portable Battery Pack

Effectively hopping from after party to after party requires a tremendous amount of battery power. Make sure you aren’t caught with a dead phone by having an Outdoor Technology portable battery pack. Capable of multiple charges, you can graciously lend it to a buddy…if you please.

Crankworx is the festival of the summer season. Make sure you’re prepared to maximize fun for the most lit event of the season yet. Pop into McCoo’s and let us outfit you in everything you’ll need for the gravity-fed action!

 

 

8 Overlooked Canada Day Adventures

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8 Overlooked Canada Day Adventures

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July long weekend is upon us and let’s face it, there are a ton of events going on  to celebrate Canada Day that just about everyone will be attending. But what if you want to spend your Canada Day really soaking up the essence of what it means to be Canadian or maybe, just less crowds? Camping, lakes and all sorts of flannel-donning, beer-drinking activities can fill that void! We’ve got 8 overlooked Canada Day adventures that will keep you off the grid and in the heart of nature.

Camping

Grab your sleeping bag, a flannel shirt and a six pack then venture into the woods, it doesn’t get much more Canadian than that.

Must-have accessory: RipCurl Finley Shirt, this is button up plaid shirt is sure to become a summer staple. 

Sunbathing

Visit anyone of the local lakes and work on your tan. If there seems to be a bunch of people on the same program, pack up and head to One Mile, Mosquito or Lilooet Lake in Pemberton.

Must-have accessory: RipCurl MyBikini or board shorts are meant to look good while you do cool stuff. 

Canoeing

Go on a wild safari down The River Of Golden Dreams. Make sure to pack a ton of sunscreen, the forest canopy is deceiving and many have been known to get some serious sun burns!

Must-have accessory: A Slowtide Towel in case of an unexpected capsize!

Hiking

Escape the hustle and bustle of the village by heading for a hike in the mountains. With all the nice weather, many of the local hikes such as Black Tusk, the Backcomb Ascent Trail and Ancient Cedars are all clear of snow.

Must-have accessory: Keep the sun out of your eyes with a pair of Oakley polarized sunglasses. 

Biking

Hit up the Whistler Bike Park or one of the many trails surrounding the village. With everyone eating Canada Day cake or watching the parade, the bike trails are sure to be clear!

Must-have accessory: The POC Trabec helmet will protect your head whilst keeping it cool.

Golfing

Four! Or maybe your yelling one fifty in commemoration of Canada’s Birthday. What ever your choice of warning for oncoming golf balls, golfing is a great activity to do on Canada Day.

Must-have accessory: An Oakley t-shirt is fancy enough to golf in and hang out in the clubhouse afterwards. 

Fishing

The ultimate Canadian experience- just you, the river and your fishing rod. Oh, and the fish but actually catching one is an added bonus, right?

Must-have accessory: A Coal Hat will protect you against the elements. 

Horseback Riding

Take in the stunning landscape of Canada from horseback and feel your heart swell with Canadian pride.

Must-have accessory: A GoPro and a selfie stick are necessary. If there are no pictures, it didn’t actually happen right?

Get outfitted by McCoo’s for these overlooked Canada Day adventures that will keep you away from the crowds and having a good ol’ Canadian time!

Fall Adventure Gear Guide

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Fall Adventure Gear Guide

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Fall in Whistler is considered a transitional season, meaning that we are sad summer is gone and can’t wait for winter get here. It may seem like a season that is forever spent anticipating what’s next but it is actually a great time to be outdoors. Hiking, biking, and adventuring are still possible but do require a bit more preparation with the variable conditions that accompanies the change in seasons. With autumn comes cooler days, rain and variable weather conditions that are sure to test your gear’s performance. We gathered up the best fall adventure gear so you can get out, have fun and get your mind off of waiting for snow!

Jacket

The consistency of summer has been left behind and in its place, fall with its unpredictable weather patterns has moved in. Don’t get caught in a rain storm or unseasonable cold winds- an Orage, Rip Curl or Oakley jacket will protect you from the elements and ensure that your adventure continues despite the weather!

Toque

Did you know most of the heat is lost through your head? Who are we kidding, we can’t confirm that fact but what we do know, is that it’s better and not wetter when your head is warm and dry! McCoo’s has got all the toques, in all the styles that are an easy transition from one season to the next. Did we mention toque season is the best season?

Socks

Wet feet can be the difference between a good time and a bad time. Stance socks not only look great but they are built for performance as well. Hook yourself up with a pair designed for snow and have warm tootsies until next year when your feet emerge from hibernation and are back in sandals again.

Action Cam

Summer is a bit more predictable- nice weather, bikinis, lake days, etc. But fall, who knows what fall is going to throw at you. Monsoons, wild winds, early snow… Okay, maybe we are exaggerating its wildness but whatever is going to happen, you’re going to want to catch it on camera. Get an action cam- either a GoPro, Contour or Ion camera and make everyone jealous of what a rad fall your having!

Tools

Always be prepared for the unexpected. Throw in an RC or a Bakoda tool in your backpack for leveling up on being prepared.

Base Layer

We haven’t decided if we love it or hate it yet, but it’s gotten cold. This may just be the ultimate limiting factor when getting outside and getting among all the autumn adventures. The best solution is to dress for the weather and a proper base later from Smart Wool or Kombi will help regulate your temperature.

Don’t make autumn a waiting game. With McCoo’s fall gear advice, there should be nothing stopping you from getting outside and enjoying all the adventures that you can before the snow arrives. If you pick your gear right, you’ll be getting ready for winter without even knowing it!

What Action Cam Is Best For You!

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What Action Cam Is Best For You!

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Action cams. They can capture everything. Maybe it’s your vacation and you want to be able to show everyone at home how much fun you’re having. Or you’re looking for a POV (That’s an abbreviation for point of view for all you action cam newbies out there) addition to your footage to create the perfect edit. Action cams are versatile, compact and insane little pieces of technology. With so many options to choose from out there on the market, we’ve put together a cheat sheet so you can find the action cam best suited for you and your video needs!

Go Pro

gopro-hero4-black-08

Your highest resolution action cam (think crisp, clear images). This bad boy boasts water proofing up to 40 metres and out of all the action cams on the market, the Go Pro takes the fastest burst image capture! Many of it’s other specifications are professional quality so you can create a high quality edit to schmooze the sponsors or just one to post on Facebook!

Contour

whistler-action-camera

Time lapse guru? This little guy is for you! Its long battery life of 3 hours and slow burst speed makes it ideal for capturing longer footage. The Contour  has also been reviewed as being the best helmet cam because of its super wide viewing angle! To put a cherry on top, it boasts an easy to use system, making it a great purchase for beginner videographers.

Ion

ion-whistler-camera

This is a great all none little camera. It’s basic and doesn’t require any additional housing to make it waterproof. For those of you looking for sleek, low profile, and light weight the Ion is for you. Finding it so easy to take lots of footage? The Ion comes with 8g of cloud storage so you don’t have to worry about when and where you’re choosing to use your camera!

So go on, find an action cam that you find easy to use, offers the key features that suite your needs and fits in to your adventure so you can relive your Whistler moments over and over again. Have more questions? Head in to McCoo’s and one of our action cam specialists will get you sorted!

Essentials for Your Whistler Beach Bag

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Essentials for Your Whistler Beach Bag

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With beaches-galore and the long summer days already here, it’s time to get the essentials for your Whistler beach bag in order. You’ll want to be ready for those last minute invites to the beach with your bases covered. Here’s what we think you’ll need in your kit this summer:

Sun Screen

Playing in the sun is fun, but be smart about it friends! One in five is sadly diagnosed with skin cancer, so product the flesh and lather up with Beach Bum Sunscreen SPF 15, 30 or 50. Water magnifies the suns UV rays, so reapply a few times so you can do it all over again tomorrow, sans sunburn.

Camera

If you aren’t already a proud owner of a GoPro camera, we can change that. We know you are going to make the most of your summer, so be sure to share it!

Sandals

You can’t go wrong with a classic Reef sandal. There is a reason these guys are the standard in the surf industry for footwear and are still making a name. It’s because their Eco-friendly, fashion forward – yet low profile design, and durable sandal just can’t be beat.

Sunnies

We just wrote an awesome post with tips on how to pick out your perfect pair of shades, so give it a read here and don’t forget to pack them!

Towel

Our favorite towel is the RVCA Balance Box Towel. This beach towel may inspire you to wear it as a toga with its soft feel and rad camo print, and we won’t judge you for that. But seriously, if you’re going to the beach you need a towel.

Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is so important when enjoying the outdoors. A water bottle is usually just a water bottle, but the Oakley Water Tank 20oz is something else. This BPA free bottle has a separate twist off bottom that can hold ice to keep your beverage cool when inverted. Its tough stainless steel construction and eye pleasing design is a practical statement piece – yes we just said statement piece about a water bottle, you clearly need to check it out.

Tunes

Whether you are looking for a portable speaker or low profile headphones Skull Candy has you covered.

Hat

Nothing says summer living like a floral hat. One of our favorites is the RFLF Co Summer Vacation Hat. RFLF Co. is a brand that got its roots right here in Whistler. They have an array of lifestyle clothing and accessories including, you guessed it, lots of awesome hats!

Bag

The kit holder. Choosing the right beach bag can be tricky, but we know this awesome Vancouver based company that makes killer backpacks and totes. Herschel Supply Company has a big selection of packs that will hold all your beach necessities and more. Come see what we’ve got in stock to get you to the beach!

Now that you’ve got the bases covered, chuck them in your beach bag and head to the beach already! Or maybe swing by and visit us at Mcoo’s first to piece together your summer kit!